Why Hire a PA Guild Member?
Not all chimney sweeps are equal. Here’s what sets Guild members apart — from a strict code of ethics to community give-back.
Committed to Education
Guild members commit to ongoing education, and many hold nationally recognized credentials from organizations like CSIA, NFI, HPBA, and F.I.R.E.
Code of Ethics
Every member signs and abides by our professional code of ethics, ensuring honest and fair service.
Accountability
If something goes wrong, homeowners can file a complaint with the Guild. We take every complaint seriously.
Pennsylvania-Based
Our members are local professionals who understand PA’s climate, building codes, and seasonal demands.
Support a Local Business
PA Guild Members live and work in your community. We see you at school activities, town and church events, or in line at the store or bank. Some sweeps develop decades-long relationships with their customers. We look forward to seeing you and providing your family top-quality services.
Guild Members Give Back
Since the 1990s our PA Guild has provided chimney and fireplace repairs and upgrades to Scout, YMCA, and church camps across the Commonwealth. These charity workshops accomplish often long-overdue repairs to aging chimneys at no cost to the host camp. Workshops also provide a source of ongoing training, exposure to new products and techniques, and a chance for members to network and enjoy fellowship.
On average, Guild workshops provide 300–400 manhours of labor and a value of up to $50,000 in labor and materials to the host camp.
Guild Code of Ethics
Members pledge to uphold our Code of Ethics. Key elements include:
- Honesty and Fairness: We pledge to provide services in a truthful and equitable manner, avoiding deceptive practices or statements.
- Consumer Education: We commit to educating customers about safe chimney and fireplace practices.
- Professional Development: We pledge to continually update our knowledge, skills, and techniques to stay at the forefront of chimney and hearth industry best practices.
Our Members Support Each Other
We see other Guild members as professional colleagues and oftentimes have long friendships. Members call each other to discuss unusual jobs, lend specialty tools, or even drive across town — sometimes across the State — to help another sweep when called. We have loaned vehicles and tools when a fellow member lost a truck in an accident, and sent workers to help members complete work due to injury or illness.
While many contractors may be cutthroat against their competition, we endeavor to help all our members succeed.
Questions to Ask When Selecting a Chimney Sweep
Are you insured?
Professional chimney sweeps will carry the proper insurances to protect you and your home.
What certifications do you have?
Many professional chimney sweeps obtain certifications from organizations such as CSIA, CCP, and NFI.
How do you protect my home from messes?
Professional chimney sweeps will have clean drop cloths and tarps, commercial soot-control vacuums, and other equipment to protect your home and belongings from messes.
Do you do an inspection of my chimney?
Professional chimney sweeps will inspect your chimney during the sweeping process. Inspections play a vital role in maintaining your chimney and appliances. Tools such as mirrors, video cameras, and flashlights are used.
What type of paperwork will I receive?
A professional chimney sweep will provide you with an invoice or receipt for the work completed, as well as documentation of the condition of the chimney.